VICTORIA — Joseph Perez of Refugio won first place in the Lift for Gifts Power-Lifting Meet on Saturday, Dec. 15. in Victoria.

In order to compete, each contestant must donate Christmas gifts for children. The event was sponsored by Jill Mills, second strongest Women in the World and hosted by two-time Mr. Olympia, Chris Pappillion.

Perez won first place in the 220 weight class Junior Classic Raw Division, with a total combined weight lift pf 1,100 pounds in dead lift, bench press, and squats divisions.

The next power lifting meet “Battle of the Beast” is set for Jan. 12. The meet will be hosted by Chris Pappillion.